Related articles

We are conscious that the ability to determine our sovereignty rested on the platform that we were given in 1951, when all Barbadians over 21 years old were given the right to vote; and thereafter when we received the right to manage our own internal affairs with the introduction of ministerial government.

These fundamental achievements in our democratic life provided a solid platform to become an independent nation.

We have made considerable strides both as a nation and as a people since that rainy night back in 1966 when the Broken Trident was hoisted over a new, expectant nation.

In the last 50 years we have moved from an agricultural society to a service economy with a highly educated workforce that for the most part is better off than our parents were.

We have provided sound and trusted leadership in our region, contributing at the highest levels in several spheres of endeavour.

And we have taken our place in the global family of nations, distinguishing ourselves as a leader of small island developing states to the extent that we were once complemented for “punching above our weight”.

Indeed, in the years leading to this anniversary, the Barbados brand became known, in essence, for the core values that have defined us as a reliable partner in the international community; a moderate, responsible small state guided by the norms of democratic governance; respect for the rule of law; human rights and fundamental freedoms and a functioning court system; a country characterised by political stability; sound administrative and financial management; strong institutions; an efficient bureaucracy; an absence of corruption; well developed physical infrastructure; progressive social and economic policies which emphasise the development of our people; and a thriving social partnership with stable relations between Government, business and labour.

In short, the Barbados brand came to stand for a safe, friendly, fair, high-quality environment in which to live, do business or visit.

Regrettably, over the last few years, much of the lustre which once characterised the Barbados brand has faded and Barbadians have faced serious challenges. These challenges have led many Barbadians from all walks of life to express fear for the future.

You are concerned that too many things seem to be going wrong and not enough effective effort is seemingly being exerted to fix them.

I say to you, fear not!

The integrity of the Barbados brand can be restored. The astute, responsible leadership that was its hallmark throughout our development journey can return.

Tomorrow begins the first day in our journey towards the next 50 years, and we suggest all Barbadians pause and ask ourselves some tough questions:

• Are we happy about the way our island now works?

• Do we have confidence in our future?

• Can we see the benefits of the sacrifices asked of us?

• Do we think more can be done to improve our country?

• Are we willing to take control and chart our destiny?

My friends, how we manage our affairs going forward from here will largely influence our progress as a country in the next few years and will set the foundation for the next 50 years.

The mission of restoring confidence in our country cannot be achieved through the efforts of any one class, sector or political party. It requires the efforts of us all. The answers to our challenges are not easy, fellow Barbadians, but they are not impossible if we are willing to work hard enough and in the right ways.

Let us recognise that in the same way our forefathers dug deep and worked to overcome their challenges, we too must come together and, with discipline, compassion and focus, chart a bold new course for our Barbados for the next 50 years!

On behalf of myself and my colleagues in the Barbados Labour Party, we want to wish you a happy Independence Day with a pledge that we are focused and ready to get Barbados working again for all Barbadians.

Legal

No unauthorized use is permitted of content produced by NationNews.com, The Nation Newspaper or any other publication or media owned by Nation Publishing Co. Limited. Unauthorized use includes framing and direct posting of content on websites other than www.nationnews.com.